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THE MOST HEART-WARMING VALENTINE’S DAY TRADITIONS AROUND THE WORLD…

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Published: Tuesday, 14 February 2017 08:18

Valentine’s Day, a festival of love, is a romantic event celebrated all over the world. Whilst some nationalities present their partners with bouquets of flowers and handmade chocolates, others walk through frozen fields bare foot…!

Read on to discover some of the world’s most weird and wonderful traditions…

St Valentine, France

Between the 12th and 14th of February, the aptly titled ‘Village of Love’ transforms into the epicentre of romance. Expect houses decked in roses, trees covered in love notes, multiple marriage proposals and the chance to plant your own lovers’ tree.

Argentina

Argentines not only celebrate Valentine’s Day, they also set aside an entire week during July to celebrate ‘Sweetness Week’ when kisses are exchanged for sweet treats. Originally set up as a confectioners marketing campaign it was quickly embraced by this passionate nation.

Bulgaria

February 14th the Bulgarians celebrate St. Trifon Zarezan Day, otherwise known as Winemakers Day. Couples therefore tend to celebrate their love for one another with a glass or two of some of the nation’s delicious wine!

Romania

Celebrated on the 24th of February, Dragobete, also known as ‘The day the birds are betrothed’, is a mixture of Valentine’s Day and a celebration of spring. Girls and boys head out to the forest to pick flowers, whilst others wash their faces in snow to bring health and happiness.

South Korea

The romantic South Koreans celebrate love on the 14th of every month – not just February! These days include May’s Rose Day, June’s Kiss Day, December’s Hug Day and April’s Black Day, when singletons congregate to console themselves over Jajangmyeon – black noodles!

China

Known as Qixi, the Chinese festival of love takes place on the 7th day of the 7th month on the Chinese calendar. It originated from the tragic tale of two star-crossed lovers, who were forced apart due to their social status, yet were allowed to reunite once a year. These days singletons prepare fruit in the hope of future love , whilst couples pray for prosperity.

Brazil

The day of lovers, Dia dos Namorados, is celebrated on June 12th. Saint Anthony’s Day, the patron saint of marriage, is celebrated the following day. Single women typically perform rituals, known as simpatias, in the hope that they will be next to marry

Philippines

Valentine’s Day is a popular occasion for mass weddings where hundreds, sometimes even thousands, will tie the knot in unison! These huge events are often sponsored by the government as a form of public service.

Japan

Whilst in most nations it is the women that are spoilt on Valentine’s Day, in Japan it is the men that receive gifts of chocolate. It is not until March 14th, known as White Day that men can choose to return the favour.